Environmental specialists have warned that Nigeria’s rapid biodiversity decline could undermine food security, tourism, public health and long-term economic growth, calling on federal and state authorities to prioritise ecosystem preservation.
The appeal was made in Abeokuta during the validation and inauguration of Multi-Stakeholder Platforms and a Biodiversity Needs Assessment Study focused on conserving the lowland forest mosaic landscape in Ogun State and Edo State. The initiative is part of the GEF-7 Biodiversity Project, implemented by the Nigeria National Park Service in partnership with the Food and Agriculture Organisation and the Global Environment Facility.
The project aims to strengthen biodiversity conservation while improving local livelihoods through sustainable land use and ecosystem management. Experts emphasised that Nigeria’s ecological resources are essential not only for environmental stability but also for agriculture, water security, and economic diversification.
Presenting an overview of the programme, Chief Technical Adviser for GEF-7, Prof. Segun Oladoye, described Nigeria’s biodiversity as one of Africa’s richest yet most threatened. He cited national data indicating that the country hosts over 864 bird species, 117 amphibian species, 203 reptile species, more than 775 fish species, 285 mammals, and over 4,715 plant species. However, at least 309 species face extinction due to habitat loss, over-exploitation, pollution, and climate change.
According to Oladoye, the GEF-7 initiative will focus on integrated landscape planning, biodiversity restoration, sustainable livelihoods, and knowledge-driven conservation strategies. These components are designed to balance environmental protection with economic opportunities for local communities.
Mr. Lawrence Osaze, the GEF-7 National Programme Coordinator, described the validation process as a step toward inclusive biodiversity governance. He noted that the newly inaugurated Multi-Stakeholder Platform will facilitate dialogue among government agencies, civil society, communities, and private-sector actors to enhance transparency and collective action.
Academic contributions at the event reinforced the economic and ecological value of sustainable production systems. A presentation by a researcher from the Forestry Research Institute of Nigeria defined biodiversity-friendly production as agricultural and forestry practices that harmonise economic activity with ecosystem preservation.
Experts argued that methods such as agroforestry can improve soil fertility, enhance carbon sequestration, and increase on-farm tree diversity while supporting rural livelihoods. They warned that land-use changes, over-exploitation of natural resources, and climate change remain major threats to Nigeria’s ecological stability.
Gender inclusion also featured prominently in discussions. A gender specialist highlighted the role of women in natural resource management and emphasised that biodiversity projects must integrate gender-responsive strategies. Women-led initiatives in non-timber forest production and agroforestry, alongside expanded access to finance and markets, were identified as pathways to sustainable development.
Integrated land management was another key focus. Environmental analysts urged the adoption of coordinated land-use frameworks to strengthen forest governance and sustainable development planning. They noted that Ogun State retains significant forest resources, making strategic land management essential for conservation and economic resilience.
Government representatives reiterated commitments to environmental stewardship and community engagement. The Commissioner for Women Affairs emphasised the importance of grassroots participation, particularly among women, in sustaining biodiversity initiatives.
As Nigeria confronts mounting environmental challenges, experts argue that biodiversity conservation is not merely an ecological imperative but an economic necessity. Protecting natural ecosystems, they insist, will enhance food production, support climate resilience, and secure long-term development outcomes for future generations.